Letters to the Editor 8-27-15

Victoria Perotti is dedicated to Amenia

As a senior citizen living in the town of Amenia, I have friends in surrounding towns that have fallen on hard times due to increases in local taxes. 

We, in Amenia, are fortunate that we have people like Victoria Perotti looking out for all of us and keeping our taxes low while still maintaining programs. An example of this is keeping within the mandated state tax cap, which makes all homeowners eligible for a tax rebate. 

Upon assuming the role of town supervisor, Victoria instituted safeguards for town funds that were not previously in place according to state regulations. 

Victoria has been and will continue to be a strong advocate for our town and has a great working relationship with the county and state representatives. She spends countless hours attending meetings, seminars and workshops to stay informed. 

We are well represented! While the position of town supervisor is a part-time position, Victoria puts in endless hours and dedication to our town. I have on numerous occasions called Victoria and she has always given me her complete attention for my concerns. I have found that she is very transparent, making all decisions at board meetings for all to see. 

Being intimately involved in town programs such as the Recreation Commission for many years and dealing with many supervisors, I have the unique perspective of what works and what doesn’t. My friends, I can assure you that Victoria Perotti works for all of us! The best choice for the prosperity and future of Amenia is Victoria Perotti. 

Please vote for Victoria in the Republican Primary on Thursday, Sept. 10, from noon to 9 p.m., at the Immaculate Conception Church in Amenia or the Wassaic firehouse in Wassaic.

Evelyn “Frankie”
O’Connell

Amenia

New trail stop signs could be dangerous

Safety has always been a priority for the Harlem Valley Rail Trail Association and for Dutchess County, the creator of the trail. The recent accident on Sheffield Road which resulted in a grievous injury illustrates the need for trail users to use caution at road crossings. Signs telling bicyclists to stop and dismount at road crossings, road striping and other caution indicators need to be heeded in all instances.

 I have not read County Legislator Michael Kelsey’s (R-25) proposal, but believe it includes stop signs on roadways at Rail Trail crossings. I believe that on state highways this would be impractical and on rural roads this would be downright dangerous. Placing stop signs in new locations would likely cause accidents even as they attempt to protect Rail Trail users.

 It is incumbent on trail users to be responsible for their own safety at road crossings and dismounting a bicycle when crossing roads is the safest practice. Motor vehicle users must also do their part by being aware of Rail Trail crossings and slowing down when they see Rail Trail crossing signs. Together these precautions will make Rail Trail use as safe as possible.

Dick Hermans

Chairman

Harlem Valley Rail Trail Association

Pine Plains